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Ward Melville Heritage Organization

Creativity abounds at Stony Brook Village Center’s scarecrow competition

by Heidi Sutton - October 10, 2024

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Time to vote! Above are just a few of the 43 unique and creative scarecrows of all shapes, sizes and characters that line the walkways througout the Stony Brook Village Center for the Ward Melville Heritage Organization’s 34th Annual Scarecrow Competition.

You have until Friday, October 25 to vote for your favorite in three categories: Professional, Adults/Family, and Children. Winning scarecrows will win cash prizes based on the number of votes they receive from the public. Ballots can be found in all the shops and restaurants. Once completed, ballots can be returned to any shop to be counted in for voting. Winners will be announced at the Ward Melville Heritage Organization’s 34th Annual Halloween Festival on Oct. 31.

This year’s event is generously sponsored by Suffolk Center for Speech and Myofunctional Therapy, Green Towers Group, Apple Bank, Dr. Rocco Morelli, and Dr. Robert Quilty.

For more information, call 631-751-2244.

Community Volunteer Fair heads to Emma Clark Library Sept. 25

by Press Release - September 21, 2024

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Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket will host a Community Volunteer Fair on Wednesday, Sept. 25 from 4 to 7 p.m.

Representatives from over a dozen organizations will be at the event including the American Red Cross, Avalon Nature Preserve, Bethel Hobbs Community Farm, Emma Clark Library’s Teen Department, Guide Dog Foundation, Last Chance Animal Rescue, Open Door Exchange, Parker Jewish Institute – Willing Hearts, Helpful Hands Program, Sisters of St. Joseph, Sweetbriar Nature Center, Theatre Three, Three Village Historical Society, Three Village Lending Aids Society and the Ward Melville Heritage Organization.

Furthermore, there will be a table with materials from organizations who were unable to attend the fair but are also looking for volunteers. There is no registration necessary and the event is open to all. For more information, call 631-941-4080.

Secrets of Stony Brook Village walking tours return Sept. 20

by Press Release - September 13, 2024

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0-6 — Secrets of Stony Brook Village Walking Tour. Photo courtesy of WMHO

Discover the hidden gems of Stony Brook Village!

The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) has announced the return of its Secrets of Stony Brook Village walking tours on Friday, Sept. 20.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through beautiful Stony Brook Village while hearing the quirky, real stories of the people who lived here and the landmarks that make it unique. Guests will explore the rich history of: The Melvilles, Alida Chanler Emmet, Jonas Smith, The Stony Brook Post Office, The Jazz Loft, The Three Village Inn, The Hercules Pavilion, Stony Brook Main Street and Market Square, All Souls Church, The Stony Brook Grist Mill, and The Mill Pond.

Two sessions will take place on September 20, one at 10:50 a.m. and the other at 3:50 p.m. Fee is $12 per person. Reservations are required.

To reserve your spot on the tour and to learn more about the WMHO, call 631- 751-2244.

Photo Gallery: Community unites for successful Stony Brook Mill Creek cleanup event

by Press Release - August 24, 2024

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Second cleanup planned for August 28.

On August 22, the Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) organized a creek cleanup event in response to the recent storm that caused significant damage to Harbor Road and the Mill Pond in Stony Brook. The event brought together over 70 dedicated volunteers from Stony Brook and surrounding areas to address the aftermath of the storm, including the removal of debris and dead fish from Mill Creek.

The cleanup effort saw an outpouring of community support, with participants expressing their eagerness to contribute to the community.

Notable contributors included New York State Assemblyman Ed Flood and Brookhaven Town Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich, who lent their support and presence. Lowe’s generously provided essential supplies, and local businesses such as Crazy Beans Restaurant, Sweet Mama’s Restaurant, and Premiere Pastry Shop contributed food and beverages to keep volunteers refreshed. Stony Brook Kayak and Paddleboard Rentals, along with Lessing’s Hospitality Group and the Three Village Dads, also played vital roles in the event.

The Stony Brook Fire Department was on standby with emergency vehicles to assist if needed, while the Town of Brookhaven Highway Department facilitated the cleanup with the delivery of dumpsters.

WMHO extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the creek cleanup. A second cleanup is scheduled for Wednesday, August 28 at 12:30 pm. If you are interested in participating please call 631-751-2244 for more details.

WMHO hosts 2nd annual Summer Soirée fundraiser

by Press Release - July 11, 2024

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The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) hosted its 2nd annual Summer Soirée fundraiser on June 27 at the historic Three Village Inn in Stony Brook Village.

The memorable event brought together community members and leaders to celebrate and honor the outstanding contributions of individuals who have made a significant impact on the community. Among the esteemed honorees were Charlie Lefkowitz, Barbara Damianos and the Damianos Family, and Michele Miller.

The primary goal of this year’s fundraiser was to support the ongoing restoration of the cherished Stony Brook Grist Mill, a historic landmark dating back to 1751. Thanks to the generosity of attendees and sponsors, WMHO can continue its vital work in preserving this piece of local history.

For more information about WMHO and its initiatives, please visit wmho.org or contact 631-751-2244.

All photos courtesy of WMHO.

Just Sixties Band rocks Stony Brook Village Green

by TBR Staff - July 11, 2024

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By Katherine Kelton

The Ward Melville Heritage Organization held the first of its summer concert series events July 7, at Stony Brook Village Green.

The large crowd spanned much of the green and parking lot, with their lawn chairs and picnic blankets in tow. Families, adults and pups enjoyed their own food and drinks. And for those without food on hand, Sweet Mama’s ice cream parlor was the go-to spot.

As the event caters to older crowds, the first band Just Sixties showcased a medley of music from the influential decade: the 1960s.

Just Sixties is reputed to be the longest-running ’60s tribute band in the United States, and is a Smithtown-based group. They performed under the beloved eagle of the post office, whose wings flapped to commence the concert.

Immense community spirit was felt, as people danced, swayed and took videos of the performance.

Just Sixties is a true blast from the past, with an introduction featuring famous news stories from the decade — from the moon landing to the assassination of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The messages served to remind people of the tumultuous decade while, simultaneously, embracing its history.

The drummer in the band, Rob Gerver, spoke with TBR, saying, “In between songs, the culture of the times are told as stories to the audience, making the show an educational and informative retrospective, as well as a magical musical event.”

Popular with the crowd were renditions of “Proud Mary” by Creedence Clearwater Revival and “California Dreamin’” by the Mamas & the Papas. According to Gerver, the band is versed in different genres from “bubblegum pop to heavy metal.”

There will be a total of seven Sunday concerts through Aug. 18 at 7-8:30 p.m. New York’s Martini Garden, described as “the Eagles meet Stevie Wonder,” are scheduled to play July 14.

WMHO announces return of Pop-Up Saturdays for the summer

by Press Release - July 8, 2024

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Stony-Brook-pop-up1_serena-carpino9 — Sweetbriar Nature Center heads to Stony Brook Village for a Pop-Up Saturday event on July 13. File photo by Serena Carpino

The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) has announced the return of Pop–Up Saturdays in Stony Brook Village! This six-part series of family-friendly events will take place every Saturday from July 13 to August 17, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Filled with animals, music, art, and magic, these events promise fun for all ages and will be held rain or shine. Pop–Up Saturdays are free to the public and will be located in Stony Brook Village’s Inner Court, near Crazy Beans and the Waterfall Garden.

2024 Pop–Up Saturdays Lineup:

• July 13: Sweet Briar Nature Center – Enjoy interacting with a variety of animals.

• July 20: Johnny Cuomo “Tales & Tunes” & the Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons (ARF)– Johnny Cuomo is a musician and storyteller. ARF will be hosting an adoption event from 11am – 2pm.

• July 27: Pixie Dust Storytellers – Delight in entertainment from fairytale characters.

• August 3: Magic of Amore – Be amazed by a captivating magician show.

• August 12: Caricatures by Marty – Receive a free caricature drawing from a professional artist.

• August 17: Uncle Tony’s Reptile Shack – An interactive, fun, and educational presentation featuring snakes, lizards, tortoises, and more.

Sponsors: The 2024 Pop–Up Saturdays are generously sponsored by Apple Bank, Armor Pest Control, and NY Life Insurance.

Join WMHO for a summer filled with interactive and engaging activities for the whole family. For more information, visit wmho.org or contact 631-751-2244.

‘Driving the Green Book’ wins Best Documentary at The People’s Film Festival

by Press Release - June 13, 2024

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The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) has revealed that the documentary Driving the Green Book, which features the historic Three Village Inn in Stony Brook, has won ‘Best Documentary’ at The People’s Film Festival in Harlem. The announcement was made in a press release on June 11.

On February 18, 2022, WMHO had the distinct pleasure of hosting filmmakers Saro Varjabedian, Mike De Caro, and Alvin Hall at the Three Village Inn. They discussed the Inn’s mention in the Green Book, an annual guidebook for African American travelers during segregation, highlighting safe and welcoming establishments across the nation.

In Driving the Green Book, WMHO President Gloria Rocchio explores the connection between the Green Book and the Three Village Inn, which was owned by philanthropist and businessman Ward Melville. She also delves into the history of the Dogwood Hollow Music Festivals in Stony Brook, which featured legendary African-American performers such as Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and Count Basie from 1955 to 1970.

“WMHO is honored to have contributed to a project that sheds light on an important part of American history,” read the release.

Stony Brook Post Office Eagle restored to glory

by Press Release - June 6, 2024

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The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) recently announced the successful restoration of the iconic Stony Brook Eagle, a beloved landmark perched atop the historic Stony Brook Post Office. After 83 years of service, the eagle has been meticulously restored thanks to the unwavering support of local and dedicated community members. The restoration was completed just in time for Memorial Day, allowing the patriotic eagle to be displayed for the holiday.

Built in 1940 and completed in 1941 by the visionary businessman and philanthropist Ward Melville, Stony Brook Village stands as a testament to his grand vision. Among the thirty-five buildings modified or relocated by Melville, the Post Office stands out with its remarkable 20-foot mechanical eagle, captivating generations of visitors with its lifelike movements. However, after so many years in service, the hand-carved wooden fixture was in need of restoration.

Suffolk County Legislator Steve Englebright successfully secured a $125,000 grant to restore several of the Ward Melville Heritage Organization’s (WMHO) historic properties, including the eagle. To supplement the grant, WMHO launched a fundraising campaign. This campaign reached people through newsletters, social media, and word-of-mouth, drawing donations from a diverse group of supporters. Contributions came from former and current residents, locals from neighboring towns, and eagle enthusiasts from as far away as San Antonio, Texas.

Olivia and Harlan Fischer, Branch Financial Services made a significant donation. Frederick, Jeannie, and Margeaux Ringwald, grandchildren of Friederich Wilhelm Ringwald, the man who carved the 20-foot eagle in the 1940s, also donated to the cause. The restoration, totaling $85,000, was fully funded by the donations specifically raised for the eagle.

Renowned for their expertise in historic restoration, Henry Restoration Ltd. of Nesconset was entrusted with the project. With a reputation built on prestigious projects like the Sheraton St. Regis Hotel and Trinity Church in New York City, the company commenced work on April 2nd, completing the project in less than seven weeks. WMHO worked closely with Timothy Henry, President of Henry Restoration Ltd. on the restoration.

Sidewalk bridging and scaffolding were constructed at the Post Office to facilitate the restoration work. Missing, loose, and broken parts, including the feet and arrowheads, were expertly restored or replaced. New stars, crafted from mahogany by Carl Reinke, Vice President of Henry Restoration Ltd., replaced the original Masonite stars.

Enhancements included aluminum straps for wing stabilization and a new stainless-steel chain to replace a rusty steel one. The eagle has been reconnected to its internal clock mechanism, which remains in excellent working condition. This ensures it will continue to flap its wings every hour, on the hour, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, captivating onlookers for years to come.

This project stands as a testament to the community’s commitment to preserving its rich heritage and honoring the legacy of Ward Melville. WMHO has established a dedicated fund to support the eagle and its mechanisms moving forward. Checks can be made payable to the Ward Melville Heritage Organization, and can be sent to P.O. Box 572, Stony Brook, NY 11790. Your donation is tax-deductible.

Community blood drive heads to Stony Brook Village Center May 4

by Heidi Sutton - May 2, 2024

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Responding to the critical National need for both blood donors and firefighter volunteers, The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF), and the Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO), will be hosting a blood drive, a Shed the Meds event, and a volunteer firefighter recruitment information table at the LIMEHOF, 197 Main St., Stony Brook Village on Saturday, May 4 from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Joined by State Senator Palumbo, Assemblyman Ed Flood, LIMEHOF and WMHO:

– The New York Blood Center mobile blood collection van will be collecting donations. (Reservations recommended, walk-ins welcome. Call 1-800-933-2566 to make your reservation.) The first 10 student donors will receive a ticket to The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of
Fame (LIMEHOF), courtesy of Stony Brook University.

– Firefighters from the Stony Brook, Centereach, Terryville, and, Stony Brook University Campus will be hosting an information table.

-The Suffolk County Sheriff’s Deputies will be collecting pharmaceuticals.

-Stony Brook University students will be conducting a mental health research survey.

-The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) will be hosting a raffle!

Questions? Call 631-751-2244.

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